Toyota Commences Full Operation of Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, Accelerating Vehicle Development
2024/04/02
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Nissan Unveils New Gravite Seven-Seater MPV in India from INR 565,000
Nissan has launched the locally-assembled Gravite seven-seat MPV in India, priced from INR 565,000 (approx. RM24,000) to INR 893,500 (RM38,000). Sharing its platform with the Renault Triber, the sub-four-meter model measures 3,987 mm long with a 2,636 mm wheelbase and offers configurable 2-3-2 seating with removable third row. Power comes from a B4D 1.0-liter naturally-aspirated three-cylinder producing 72 PS/96 Nm, paired with five-speed manual or AMT transmissions. The Gravite differentiates itself with a honeycomb grille, C-shaped bumper accents, and six airbags standard across all four trims (Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna). Higher variants add LED headlights, seven-inch digital cluster, and wireless charging, targeting budget-conscious families in the competitive Indian MPV segment.
Hyundai Motor and LACMA Extend Partnership Through 2037, Launch Biennial Exhibition Series
Hyundai Motor Company and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) have extended their corporate partnership—LACMA's largest programmatic commitment in history—through 2037. Since 2015, the collaboration has produced eight major exhibitions and advanced Korean art scholarship. The new chapter introduces the "Hyundai Project," a biennial survey series launching in 2028 featuring Los Angeles and Pan-Pacific artists with newly commissioned works and large-scale exterior banners at the Broad Contemporary Art Museum. Additionally, the Art + Technology Lab will transition to a biennial grant cycle in 2026 with expanded programming. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung emphasized the partnership's mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue at the intersection of art and technology.
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to Launch in Thailand This March with 2.7L NA Engine
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ—marketed under the tagline "Freedom & Joy"—will launch in Thailand at end-March, subject to PPV tax classification for truck-based SUVs, with exports to Japan commencing mid-2026. Built on the IMV0 body-on-frame platform shared with the Hilux Champ, the five-seater features unconventional proportions: at 4,575 mm long with a 2,580 mm wheelbase, it stands 1,960 mm tall—340 mm higher than the Corolla Cross. Design highlights include C-shaped DRLs, optional retro round headlamps, and an octagonal side-hinged tailgate with external spare. The cabin features 12.3-inch displays and MOLLE cargo panels. Power comes from a 2.7-liter naturally-aspirated 2TR-FE four-cylinder producing 163 PS/246 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic and part-time 4WD with low-range transfer case. Toyota claims wheel articulation matching the Land Cruiser 70, targeting lifestyle adventurers and camping enthusiasts.
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New Audi Q2 e-tron Spied Testing, Entry-Level EV SUV Targeting 2027 Launch
Spy shots have revealed the new Audi Q2 e-tron, an entry-level compact electric SUV merging the A1 and Q2 nameplates for a 2027 market launch with an estimated starting price of RMB 293,000. The design features split Matrix LED headlights matching the A6 e-tron, a sloping roofline, and a distinctive rear window positioned above the spoiler—an homage to the classic Audi A2. The cabin adopts a layout similar to the new Q3 with a floating dual-screen setup, physical climate controls, and wireless charging. Powertrain details indicate a single-motor configuration with 500 km and 600 km range options targeting the affordable premium EV segment.
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New Audi RS 5 Avant Expected to Enter China in 2029, Sedan Variant Not Planned
According to domestic social media reports, the new Audi RS 5 Avant is expected to enter the Chinese market in 2029, while the sedan variant has no confirmed import plans. Built on the PPC architecture, the wagon features a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain delivering 639 PS, with aggressive styling including large honeycomb grilles, performance intakes, and optional carbon-ceramic brakes. The cabin features RS-specific integrated racing seats. The lower-tier S5 Avant has been officially confirmed for launch this year, preceding the RS variant's arrival.
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Next-Gen Audi A8 Confirmed for Production on Porsche MSB Platform, Debuting 2030
Audi has confirmed production of the next-generation A8 (D6), internally designated AU661, switching from the SSP architecture to the Porsche-developed MSB61w platform shared with the new Panamera. Scheduled for series production in late 2029 and market launch in 2030, the flagship will offer combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The current A8 has been removed from Audi Germany's configurator, ceasing custom orders ahead of its year-end discontinuation, creating a 3-4 year gap before the successor arrives. Previous speculative renderings suggesting a dramatic sporty redesign are expected to differ significantly from the final production version.